Telstra takes iPhone just in time

By Staff Writers on Jul 1, 2008 11:59AM

With only 10 days until the official launch, Telstra has claimed its spot as the third Australian mobile company to carry the iPhone.

While Optus and Vodafone had announced their iPhone plans back in May, Telstra was left noticeably absent from the list.

Last month, rumours swirled that Telstra would be selling the much-anticipated product, only offering it two weeks after the official launch with Optus and Vodafone.

This announcement not only marks Telstra's first official word on its future with the iPhone, but also the first mention of mobile plan prices from any of the three companies.

The Next G iPhone plans start at $30 a month, with an initial cost of $279 for the 8GB iPhone and $399 for the 16 GB.

Customers can also get a free 8GB iPhone if they sign up to the $80 a month plan, and a free 16GB if they sign up to plans starting at $100 a month. All plans require a minimum 24 month contract.

Optus and Vodafone are expected to make similar announcements about their pricing structures in the coming days.